I just want to know your thoughts on this.
example:
When does a love of theological books become theological book idolatry, etc?
-and-
When does justification become rationalization?
When you love them more than you love God, or you use them to derive something that you should be trusting God for.
When you wouldn't be willing to lay all of them aside for Jesus if he asked you to.
What do you mean by deriving something that you should be trusting God for?
Interesting question.
My own opinion; those tracks were crossed long ago, when St Paul asked rich folk to sacrifice by exhibiting common courtesy for the poor.
When you prefer to get an answer from a theology book that will justify your sinfulness rather than drive you to your knees in repentance.
Deuteronomy 30:14 is a great reminder that God doesn't complicate truth.
For example, if you are turning to books to get some sort of spiritual "fix" instead of spending time with the Lord. If the books are helping you learn how to commune with God better, that's one thing. But if they become the substitute, then it's a problem. I used to teach a class on prayer, and at the top of the bibliography handout of recommended books on prayer, I included the following: A caution about any list of books on prayer: “Why do I always want to read about the spiritual life and not really live it?” (Henri Nouwen, The Genesee Diary, June 7)
I just want to know your thoughts on this. example: When does a love of theological books become theological book idolatry, etc?
It becomes idolatry when you love it more than the Bible. Nothing can replace the Word
Those answers do help a lot. I think that it's true that if they do not replace my relationship with the Lord, but rather enhance my Bible reading and fellowship with my Savior, they are not idolatry.
When you steal, cheat and are dishonest in order to be blessed with books, and think God will turn a blind eye.
The story is told that when someone asked John D. Rockefeller how much money would be enough, he replied, "Just a little more than I have." From that, I discern that love of theological books will become idolatry when I have just a little more than I have. [8-|] Now, I feel justified without rationalization [:D].
Great question Kendall. Lots of great responses too.
When you care what books say more than what the Bible says. Also when you're willing to buy them even when you cannot afford them and leave your bank account short of money you needed to use for something realistically more important (e.g. electric bill, food, rent, etc.).
DAL
Ps. Blessings!
Hmmm. Perhaps when it becomes like the temptation in the Garden of Eden. "Unless you consume this and you will not be wise like God, knowing good from evil."
When does a love of theological books become theological book idolatry
Flippantly, I'd say it happens about four minutes after you buy Logos.
After further consideration, I'd have to modify that statement. It takes at least as long as necessary for Logos to index.
[6]
I think as long as you are thanking God for the gifts you have, including the theological books, you have not yet crossed the line.
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